1890’s
The Barthman family bought the building on Maiden Lane and installed our famous Clock in the Sidewalk by the end of the decade.
1920’s-1930’s
WBJ survived almost closing during the Great Depression, and prepared for America’s
entry to WWII
1950’s-1970’s
As world leaders changed and America landed men on the moon, WBJ continued to support community endeavors and brought on new brand partners as the 75-year mark passed.
1984
We reached our centennial anniversary, with a commemorative certificate awarded by then Mayor Rudy Giuliani and press coverage in the 100 Club.
1998
The business expanded with a new location in Midwood, Brooklyn.
2004
Received the “Retail Store of the Year” award from National Jeweler Magazine.
2014
First renovation of the Brooklyn storefront to add clock and billboard
2024
In celebration of 140 years of WBJ, the Brooklyn location received an extensive renovation.
1884
F. William Barthman Sr. struck out on his own and founded his eponymous business in NYC’s original Diamond District.
1900's-1910’s
Our founder F. William Barthman Sr. passed away in 1914 as WWI began; WBJ facilitated the sale of liberty bonds to support the Allied war effort and survived damage from the Black Tom Explosion.
1940's
WBJ renewed support of Allied forces during WWII, while bringing in cultural artifacts to inspire citizens at home, such as a clock once owned by Mark Twain
1983
WBJ reached a turning point, and the Barthman family sold the company to Jerry Natkin Sr., our current owner.
1995
WBJ received a Heritage Trail Marker for the business and our Sidewalk Clock.
2001
Despite minor façade injuries and a looting incident, William Barthman survived during the devastating effects of 9/11.
2006
With business booming, William Barthman moved a few doors down from our original location to the larger 176 Broadway.
2018
With the shifting of the downtown retail landscape, Manhattan moved to its current location on Broad St, next to the New York Stock Exchange.
